Nothing Good Happens After 9pm.

Young professionals often ask me for advice on how to conduct themselves on professional dinner outings with colleagues or clients. Beyond the usual tips—be polite, engage in thoughtful (non-political) conversation, and avoid ordering the most expensive item on the menu—here’s my golden rule: nothing good happens after 9 p.m.

Over more than 30 years in my career, managing countless teams, I’ve seen the pitfalls of post-dinner outings far too often. It usually starts innocently—someone suggests continuing the night at a bar or club. But then the drinks flow, boundaries blur, and inappropriate behavior ensues. These moments have derailed careers, ended employment, and damaged reputations. And it’s not just the young and inexperienced—poor judgment after hours can affect professionals at any stage of their career, proving that age doesn’t necessarily bring wisdom.

My advice? Schedule early business dinners. Start the evening early to avoid the temptation of late-night plans. Limit yourself to two drinks. Staying in control is crucial. Call it a night after dinner. A polite “Thanks, but I need to head out” is all it takes. 

Resisting the pressure to keep the night going isn’t always easy, but trust me—it’s worth it. Opt for  a good night’s rest over late-night regrets. Your career, reputation, and well-being will thank you for it.